State search for deadly chargers

WORKSAFE TASMANIA is auditing retail outlets in Tasmania to see if any con-compliant or unapproved USB power chargers are being offered for sale.

WORKSAFE TASMANIA is auditing retail outlets in Tasmania to see if any con-compliant or unapproved USB power chargers are being offered for sale.

State Treasurer Peter Gutwein said this followed the recent death of a New South Wales woman where investigations implicated an unapproved and non-compliant USB charger as a potential cause.

Mr Gutwein said non-compliant USB power chargers could be dangerous and could damage equipment or cause an electric shock.

He urged Tasmanians to be vigilant when buying USB power chargers. Unapproved chargers were easily identifiable as the plug pins had no insulation and there were holes drilled in the plug pins.

Consumers are encouraged to check that their charger either has the Australian regulatory compliance mark, which is a tick surrounded by a partial circle and enclosed in a triangle, or a safety certificate number, which means it is approved for sale in Australia.

Anyone with an unapproved USB charger should stop using the device immediately and throw it out, Mr Gutwein said.

For further advice on USB power charger safety visit the WorkSafe Tasmania website at www.worksafe.tas.gov.au.